Garda Oversight

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 11 February 2014

Tuesday, 11 February 2014

Questions (461)

Clare Daly

Question:

461. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he has read the Frontline Defenders report Breakdown in Trust published in 2010; if he has read the report of the UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights Defenders on their visit to Ireland, published March 2013; the reason he has not taken into account the recommendations in both reports calling for the repeal of section 106 of the GSA Act 2005; and if he will finally and immediately repeal section 106 by which the independence of GSOC is compromised. [6731/14]

Written answers

Minister for Justice and Equality

I am fully aware of the reports to which the Deputy refers.

The Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission was established under the Garda Síochána Act 2005 to provide independent oversight of the Garda Síochána. The main function of the Ombudsman Commission is to receive complaints made by members of the public concerning the conduct of members of the Garda Síochána.

Section 106 provides that, for the purpose of preventing complaints arising in relation to a practice, policy or procedure of the Garda Síochána or of reducing the number of such complaints, the Minister may request the Garda Ombudsman Commission to examine the practice, policy or procedure. This request may be made on the Minister's own initiative or following a recommendation by the Garda Ombudsman Commission.

I am currently reviewing section 106 as part of a wider consideration of provisions relating to the Ombudsman Commission.